Augmentative and alternative communication in developing countries: challenge of the future

This paper deals with the problem of sustainable augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) implementation within a developing country context. The dialogical model developed by Bergson is used to identify the two major components in intervention, that is, the intellectualized level of knowledge that refers to the logical application of AAC systems and the experiential level of attitudes and social structures within a community. Attempts at implementation of a dialogical AAC strategy are discussed by using a case study approach to training and implementation at the Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication at the University of Pretoria, South Africa. Some provisional conclusions on the implementation of a dialogically orientated AAC strategy are made that refer to appropriate technology and the redefinition of AAC strategies within a particular context. Finally, it is stressed that, as a human strategy, implementation should not be based on either intellectualization or intuition or experience but should be the result of synthesis in consciousness. Implementation based on intellectualization alone dehumanizes while implementation based on experience or intuition alone is haphazard and irresponsible.